One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve got to try this One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe. It’s a fantastic dish where tender chicken breasts meet rich, garlicky cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked egg noodles—all made in one easy skillet. Not only does this recipe save you from the dreaded pile of dirty dishes, but it also delivers layers of buttery, cheesy goodness with a fresh herb finish. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll quickly become a weeknight favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each adding its own magic to the dish. The chicken brings hearty protein, while the garlic and butter build a fragrant, silky sauce. Egg noodles soak up all the creamy goodness, making every bite irresistible.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Perfectly lean and easy to cook evenly for juicy results.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For a golden sear that locks in flavor on your chicken.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance every component beautifully.
- 8 oz egg noodles: These classic noodles provide the ideal tender chew to soak up the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a warm, aromatic punch that’s the soul of the sauce.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Brings richness and helps create that luxuriously creamy texture.
- 2 cups chicken broth: A flavorful base that keeps the noodles moist and delicious.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For decadence and smoothness in every spoonful.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory tang and thickens the sauce naturally.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Brings a bright, fresh burst of color and flavor to finish.
How to Make One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes per side to get that gorgeous golden crust, then check it’s cooked all the way through. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside—don’t worry, it’ll come back to the party soon.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Using the same skillet is where the magic happens! Toss in the minced garlic and cook it for just 30 seconds until it smells fragrant and just starts to turn golden. This quick step infuses the pan with that rich garlic aroma that’s impossible to resist.
Step 3: Cook the Egg Noodles
Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together before bringing it to a gentle simmer. Add the egg noodles right into this creamy mixture and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so the noodles cook evenly and soak up all that tasty liquid. The noodles should be tender, not mushy—perfect for coating in sauce.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce
Once the noodles are tender, stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese. Watch as the butter melts and the Parmesan thickens the sauce into a luxuriously creamy coating that clings to every noodle and nugget of chicken flavor.
Step 5: Add Back the Chicken
Slice the reserved chicken or return it whole to the skillet. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to warm through and soak up some of that velvety sauce. This reunion makes the dish complete—a perfect balance of tender meat and creamy noodles.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and a fresh counterpoint to the richness. Serve this One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe immediately while warm and silky for the best experience.
How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic, but you can also sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan or even a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick. A twist of lemon zest can add a lovely brightness to balance the creamy sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
Since this dish is delightfully rich and filling, pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans adds refreshing texture and keeps the meal balanced. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are perfect if you want to sop up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this recipe in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy noodles and chicken prominently, making it feel extra cozy. Or, layer the chicken on top of the noodles like a crown and garnish generously with herbs for that restaurant-quality look at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, and reheating gently will bring back that creamy comfort.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze without the fresh parsley garnish, adding that after reheating. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the texture perfect.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over low to medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir frequently to warm everything evenly without drying out the noodles or chicken.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta instead of egg noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional here because they soak up the sauce so well, you can swap in fettuccine, penne, or even rotini. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well. Just be mindful to thaw it properly and reheat gently to keep the creamy sauce smooth and the chicken tender.
Can I make this dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free butter alternatives. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
What if I want to add vegetables?
Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas make excellent additions. Add them after cooking the garlic so they cook just right without overpowering the dish.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). They’ll feel firm when pressed and have no pink inside.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe has everything you want in a hearty, flavorful meal that’s surprisingly easy to make. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that feels special enough for guests yet simple for any weeknight. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how this creamy, garlicky comfort food just melts in your mouth. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weekday dinner. Tender boneless chicken breasts are pan-seared to golden perfection, then simmered with egg noodles in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce enriched with Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 45 minutes, this satisfying meal combines rich flavors and creamy textures all cooked in one skillet for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until golden brown and thoroughly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet with the remaining oil and chicken drippings, add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Noodles: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the egg noodles and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and have absorbed flavors from the sauce.
- Finish Sauce: Stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese into the noodle mixture. Continue stirring until the butter melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Add Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken breasts or return them whole to the skillet, nestling them into the noodles and sauce. Allow to simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Serve: Garnish the completed dish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately while warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the chicken is cooked through but not overcooked to keep it moist and tender.
- Feel free to use gluten-free noodles to adapt this recipe if needed.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk; however, the sauce will be less rich.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances the flavor significantly compared to pre-grated brands.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
